I don't think CC's talking about the Specific GrillGrates we're talking about. Yeh, Meathead's product reviews are pretty straight on target even though he gets a spiff if you order them thru his web site from Amazon. He has a good web site.

mar52I've been on their email list for a few years and have yet to buy them. They call them hard anodized. I'm thinking that they're aluminum which turns me off. Find a cast iron grill that fits on top your grates if you don't have cast iron already.

"GrillGrates are constructed of aircraft grade aluminum which is hard anodized (a natural hardening process) to create an extremely durable, ultra hard surface that is a much better conductor of heat than steel or cast iron. GrillGrates are more efficient and will never rust."

I checked them out in a store today and they are a heavy, hard metal. Not your everyday aluminum stuff. Won't warp, rust or collect dust!

These go beyond Cast Iron: 1. SEARS The Raised Railsdeliver superior sear marks due to more surface area contact and better heat conductivity. 2. SIZZLES The Valleyscapture juices and steam and sizzle for added flavor, moisture and juiciness. 3. RADIATES The added mass and shaperadiates with heat for fast, even cooking. 4. PROTECTS The Bottom protects against charring flareups and drying heat. Fats drain off and burn on the bottom of the GrillGrate not on the outside of the food. You get the Grill marks without the flareups and burning of the steaks surface.

The grates look great for what they do. It seems cast iron would be best because it can handle the high temps. The fact that it prevents flare-ups seems to be the best of all, no more flaming chicken and sausage. How pricey? Proably is worth it; seems like a must-have for anyone who cooks meats. Buddy